The Football Association (FA) announced that Gareth Southgate will be extending his contract with the national team for two more years. This means Southgate will be in charge of England until the 2026 World Cup. The FA is looking at the recent runs the head coach has had and yeah he reached the finals of Euro champions back in 2020, and he also had a great run in the World Cup 2022 reaching the quarterfinals.
But despite these achievements, many do not see him as the right man to guide the Three Lions to winning a major trophy. Southgate’s contract extension is just not the right move, the performances of the team are just quite underwhelming. They are struggling to keep momentum and have no composure, plus most players are not delivering the same energy as they do at the club level.
His approach and lack of innovation are not enough to guide England to a first major trophy since 1966. The Three Lions need a more progressive coach who can unlock the team’s attacking potential. It is not just the hype, but the team had some of the most talented players in world football. They are making great runs at club level, and they need a manager who can bring the same energy to the national team.
The FA’s Perspective
The FA is prioritizing the national team being in a stable environment. Southgate has a deep understanding of English football, he knows the players well. His vision aligns perfectly with the FA’s long-term vision. They believe consistency is crucial for achieving sustained success on the international stage.
He has had good runs on the international stage, reaching the World Cup semi-final in 2018 and Euro 2020 finals. These performances had never been achieved in decades, and the FA believes he can finally win a major tournament by building upon recent success.
Southgate Stays: A Blunder
Southgate’s tactics, particularly his dependence on being defensive in high-pressure games. This conservative style hinders England’s attacking potential. The Three Lions need a manager who can utilize the team’s talented players in a system that prioritizes attacking flair alongside defensive solidity. While he has shown his brilliance in most tournaments, sometimes his choice of players always lets the team down.
England needs fresh leadership, the one that can take them from just a hyped national team to winning a major trophy. Looking at the players on the national team’s roster, they have the potential to be the number one national team in Europe and the world. A fresh approach might just bring more trophies for this team.
Fans appreciate his ability to unite a talented group of individuals under a common goal. The FA recognizes this as a main recipe. A strong team spirit can significantly impact morale, particularly during high-pressure tournaments. A united squad can weather setbacks and maintain focus, qualities the FA believes Southgate has successfully instilled in the England team.
Closure
Gareth Southgate’s contract extension with the England national team is a double-edged sword. While it ensures continuity and stability, it also raises the pressure on his shoulders. Their expectations of him will seriously mean he has to bring a lot to the table for the next matches.
He might have a great run in the ongoing Euro even winning the coveted trophy but when you see the team play you do not see them even making it to the semifinals or even the final. It will take more than tactics to reach the final and maybe win the tournament and this will prove his ability, but at the moment England needs another manager to guide them.
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About the Author
From Mbale, Uganda, Wopicho Tony is a rising star in the world of football punditry. This self-proclaimed football fanatic bleeds passion for the beautiful game. With an eye for talent and a deep understanding of the sport’s intricacies, Tony’s analysis is both insightful and engaging. Check out the blog about African football on Footy Africa.
